How to Get Involved in Christian Charities in London

London is home to many Christian charities dedicated to serving the homeless, supporting families, aiding refugees, and spreading the message of faith. Whether you’re looking for volunteer opportunities, ways to donate, or simply want to support Christian-led initiatives, there are many ways to get involved.

At The Highbury Centre, we have had the privilege of welcoming many Christian charity workers who come to London to serve others. For them, our guest house is more than just accommodation—it is a place of rest, reflection, and renewal before they step out to do God’s work. We have heard incredible stories of faith in action, and we continue to be inspired by their dedication to helping those in need.

1. Why Get Involved?

• The Biblical call to service – Jesus said in Matthew 25:35-40: “I was hungry, and you gave me food... I was a stranger, and you welcomed me.” Christian charity work is a way to live out these words.
• Strengthening your faith through action – Many of the charity workers we have met describe how serving others has drawn them closer to God.
• Becoming part of a community of believers – Whether volunteering or supporting a charity, you join a movement of people committed to spreading Christ’s love.

2. The Role of The Highbury Centre in Supporting Charity Workers

Over the years, The Highbury Centre has become a home away from home for missionaries, aid workers, and Christian charity leaders. Many arrive in London exhausted from their travels or from months of intense work in the mission field. Here, they find a peaceful place to recharge physically, mentally, and spiritually before continuing their work.

Stories of Charity Workers We Have Hosted

• A missionary couple who had just returned from years of working with orphans in Africa found solace in our quiet spaces before heading back out to continue their mission.
• A young volunteer serving with a Christian homeless shelter shared how her stay at The Highbury Centre helped her refocus and prepare for the challenges ahead.
• A pastor working with refugees in the Middle East described how his time of rest here renewed his strength to continue advocating for displaced families.
  These stories remind us that rest is an essential part of serving others. Even Jesus took time away to pray and recharge (Mark 6:31).

3. Types of Christian Charities in London

1)  Homeless Support & Food Banks

• London City Mission – Works to support the homeless and marginalised.
• The Trussell Trust – Operates food banks across London with Christian roots.
• Glass Door Homeless Charity – Church-based shelters providing emergency accommodation.
• The Salvation Army – Provides emergency accommodation, food, clothing, and resettlement support for the homeless, alongside pastoral care and training to help individuals rebuild their lives.

2)  Refugee and Asylum Seeker Support

• Jesuit Refugee Service UK – Helps displaced people with legal aid, housing, and employment support.
• Welcome Churches – Aims to connect refugees with church communities.

3)  Family & Children’s Charities

• Spurgeons Children’s Charity – Supports vulnerable children and families.
• Care for the Family – A Christian charity that offers support, courses, and resources for families, focusing on marriage, parenting, and bereavement. They also provide specialised support for families with children who have special needs.

4)  Evangelism & Discipleship Ministries

• Alpha Course – A programme helping people explore the Christian faith.
• UCCF: The Christian Unions – Supports students in their faith journey at universities.

4. Ways to Get Involved

1)  Volunteering Your Time

• Help at a soup kitchen or food bank.
• Mentor young people through Christian youth groups.
• Join a street outreach ministry to pray with and support the homeless.
• Volunteer with refugee integration programmes.

2)  Donating Resources

• Give to Christian charities via one-off or regular donations.
• Donate clothes, food, or supplies to church-run shelters.
• Offer your skills—whether professional, such as legal help, marketing, or administration, or practical, like manual labour, tutoring, or childcare—to support the work of Christian charities.

3)  Using Your Church as a Hub

• Encourage your church to partner with a charity.
• Start a fundraiser for Christian organisations.
• Organise a volunteer day for your congregation.

5. How to Find the Right Charity for You

• Consider your passion and skills (e.g., working with children, outreach, admin).
• Research opportunities through websites like Christian Jobs, Oscar UK, Charity Jobs, Do It, or charity databases.
• Attend charity events or meetings to learn more.

6. The Importance of Rest in Serving Others

For those who dedicate their lives to helping others, rest is not a luxury—it is a necessity. Many Christian charity workers we have hosted at The Highbury Centre share how essential it is to take time for spiritual renewal, prayer, and physical rest before returning to their mission.

If you are involved in Christian charity work, make space for rest:

• Take spiritual retreats to reflect and reconnect with God.
• Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage and uplift you.
• Find places of peace and hospitality, like The Highbury Centre, where you can pause and recharge.

Rest is essential, not only for physical strength but also to renew your spirit for the work ahead. As you recharge, remember that you don’t have to walk this journey alone.

If you need support or guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the charities and organisations mentioned above. They are here to help you, whether you’re looking for opportunities to volunteer, seeking resources for your family, or needing assistance in times of crisis. Together, we can make a difference!